Does Epcon Communities have the right to make changes to the Development System?
Epcon_Communities Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
We do not restrict the types of goods or services that you may offer, except that you are prohibited from modifying our Development System (except as necessary to comply with building codes and permits, and local, state and federal laws) and, in your development of Epcon Communities projects, you must comply with the specifications of the Development System. Except in limited circumstances, you may not during the term of the Franchise Agreement, own, develop, construct or have any interest in any real estate development project that is age-restricted or for which the targeted buyers are the 55+ home buyer, including, but not limited to, detached and/or attached ranch-style homes (with or without basements or a second floor) that are similar to the homes and communities depicted in our Development System. You are not required to sell all goods or services authorized by us. We have the right to add to, discontinue or modify authorized goods, services, specifications and procedures at our discretion. There are no limits on this right to make changes to the Development System. You are not restricted regarding the buyers to whom you may sell your Units.
Source: Item 16 — RESTRICTIONS ON WHAT THE FRANCHISEE MAY SELL (FDD page 55)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Epcon Communities FDD, Epcon Communities retains the right to modify its Development System. The FDD states that franchisees are prohibited from modifying the Development System, except when necessary to comply with building codes, permits, and local, state, and federal laws.
Epcon Communities "has the right to add to, discontinue or modify authorized goods, services, specifications and procedures at our discretion. There are no limits on this right to make changes to the Development System." This means that Epcon Communities can change the products, services, specifications, and procedures within the Development System without any restrictions.
For a prospective franchisee, this implies that the Development System they initially invest in may evolve over time. While franchisees must adhere to the updated specifications, they also benefit from Epcon Communities' ongoing efforts to refine and improve the system. However, franchisees do not have the authority to alter the Development System on their own, except for necessary legal compliance, ensuring uniformity across all Epcon Communities projects.